Reliability analysis of multilevel and matrix converters used in more electric aircraft

Abstract

This paper presents the current scenario related to the application of power electronics converters in aviation industries, major challenges and their reliability aspects. Recent developments in power electronics have given a major breakthrough in the aviation industry. These developments are not only limited to the more electric aircraft (MEA) but also in the field of electric propulsion, popularised as electric propulsion aircraft (EPA). The aircraft requires a well-established protection scheme of these converter topologies. The overall reliability of aircraft solely depends on its protection and fast mitigation of any fault if occurs in the cruise time. This paper aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of power converters applications in MEA and EPA. Further, a review of various topologies of Power Converters and their reliability assessment is also described in detail. The physics of Failure of switches, their lifetime estimation and thermal cycling have also been discussed. Finally, the reliability assessment of different topologies and their comparison has been discussed for overall performance enhancement of the MEA and EPA.